The FA Cup was on display for the first day of the tournament. With the support of Surrey County FA, the legendary trophy stood proudly all day, on the podium at Brockham's Big Field, with the sun glinting off its highly polished lid. For anyone who doubted that this was the real trophy that gets handed over each year at Wembley, the dents from some of the over-exuberant victory celebrations were there for all to see.
Players, friends and families were able to take their photos standing next to the Cup and the winning teams collected their own medals and trophies alongside it. It was one of the highlights of a memorable weekend at Brockham 09.
Once again, 192 teams with over 1500 players and around 5000 visitors came to the fourth annual event on the picturesque National Trust site, in the shadow of the North Downs.
There was a fantastic friendly and sporting atmosphere, as players of all ability competed in a European Championship theme. Teams brought flags and had their faces painted. Some clubs abandoned their traditional shirts and wore shirts of their 'adopted country' for the weekend.
The Surrey County FA Football Development Officer, Steven Edwards said, “the tournament is a great credit to the area and the County FA would like to acknowledge the help of the parents, relatives and friends who voluntarily help to run the event and make it such a success.”
Tournament Director, Jason Rabbetts says, "Thank you - what more can I say?” Once again everyone involved in Brockham 09 ensured the event surpassed all expectations.
For information on the tournament please see http://www.brockhambadgersfc.co.uk/Brockham09/